Mike Desjardine - Thomas C. Whitcroft Funeral & Chapel

Michael “Mike” Desjardine – of Neyaashiinigmiing, suddenly on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Michael Lawrence Desjardine at the age of 77 years. Devoted husband of Nadine (nee Keeshig). Loving father of Sunshine (Kevin McKnight), of Allenford, Bucky DesJardine, of Neyaashiinigmiing, Jacqueline Keeshig (partner Adrian Mitchell), of Port Elgin, Katie Desjardine, of Tara, and Anna Desjardine (partner Jacob Smith), of Tiverton.
Mike was a strong, quiet man — steady in presence, generous in action, and a true “girl dad” at heart. As a father to daughters, he gave them a childhood filled with adventure — but most of all, unconditional love.
Cherished grandfather of Aubrey Laine Urbshott, Jolie Bay McKnight, Grayden Elgin McKnight, Finn Alexander McKnight, Braelynn Keeshig, Henrik Lawson Smith, and Harper Maisie Smith. Dear brother of Joseph Desjardine (Kathy), Barney Keeshig (Mary Ann), George Keeshig (Sheila), Christine Keeshig, Vera (Vaughn Whiteye), David Keeshig, Janice Doxtader, and Robert Keeshig; and brother-in-law of Lenore Keeshig-Tobias (late David McLaren), Tony Keeshig (Susan), Towdy Akiwenzie (late Peter), Johnny Keeshig (Chastity), Karl Keeshig (Deanna), Joanne Keeshig, Scooby Keeshig, and Jocelyn “Joshi” Keeshig.
Mike was the hunt master — full of big ideas and bigger plans. The gang has lost the leader, but memories (and a few lessons) will live on through many, many stories.
He will be sadly missed by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and longtime friends. Predeceased by his parents, George Keeshig and Alexandria Desjardine; brother, Charles Keeshig; and granddaughter, Natalya Keeshig-Lisk.
The family wishes to thank the First Responders (Chippewas of Nawash Fire Department, and the Cape Croker Police Department) for the amazing care and respect given to Mike and his family. A special thanks to family friends Teddy Johnston and Horald Ingram for doing everything that could have been done.
Visitation will take place from the Desjardine home (245 Lakeshore Blvd., Neyaashiinigmiing) on Tuesday evening from 6-8 PM, Wednesday 2–4 and 6-8 PM, Thursday 2–4 and 6-8 PM. A service to celebrate Mike’s life will occur at the Desjardine home on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 11 AM. Cremation to follow.
Donations are appreciated to the Ronald McDonald House — for the support they provided to his Anna and Jake when Henrik needed extended care after a bumpy start to life — or to the Little NHL Hockey Committee – It brought Mike immense pride and joy to watch his grandchildren represent Nawash. Donations can also be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in his honour.
A message from his daughters:
Thank you for your quiet strength that always made sure we knew we were safe and deeply loved. We will love you forever xoxo
Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas C. Whitcroft Funeral Home & Chapel, Sauble Beach (519) 422-0041. Condolences may be expressed online at www.whitcroftfuneralhome.com

Condolences(23)

Terry King says
September 16, 2025 at 12:17 pm

My condolences to all of Mike’s loved ones. There are too many to list because he was a larger than life presence everywhere he was. Even though he was a quiet man, he led by powerful example and steadfast commitment to his family, his friends and community.
Julie Damm says
September 16, 2025 at 4:48 pm

My condolences and love to you, Nadine, for the loss of your husband and to your children for the loss of their father, and to their families.
Condolences also to his siblings and their families. I knew Michael as a kind and helpful person. He came with Jiggs for a visit at my parent’s home following their passing. And I will never forget that he was the first to offer condolences following the passing of Jo-Anna. The extended family and community has lost a fine man. Love, Julie.
Frances Petonoquot (Lavalley). says
September 16, 2025 at 4:53 pm

My deepest condolences to Nadine Desjardinei and family. Also to his brothers and sisters.
Donna ward says
September 16, 2025 at 5:26 pm

To all of Mike’s family. My deepest sympathies to all of you. I always received a quiet hello every time I saw him. What a huge loss for all. I hope your lifetime of memories helps you through this difficult time. Sincerely Donna Ward
Janna & family says
September 16, 2025 at 5:57 pm

May your family find comfort in each other and the stories, the laughter, the love and the memories of your Dad
Penny Leishman says
September 16, 2025 at 6:09 pm

Dear Nadine and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love Vern and Penny
Ron Pyette Sr says
September 16, 2025 at 6:38 pm

Chatted with Mike a couple times over years at the Cape. I met him through my friend Vern Barkley. Very nice fella. Sincere condolences to Mike’s family. Rest In Peace Mike. Ron Pyette Sr Sault Ste Marie Ontario…
Glenda Jamieson says
September 17, 2025 at 10:27 am

I am very sorry for your loss. Sending my deepest condolences to all of the family🫂❤️🫂
Tibby Johnston says
September 17, 2025 at 2:22 pm

Hey Buddy

Our Love to you and Yours,
Tibby & Rico
David Johnston-Weiser says
September 17, 2025 at 2:22 pm

My condolences to all of Mike’s family and friends. I always admired his quiet presence and helpfulness where I remember he noticed something wrong with my car before I did – it was a simple gesture but it spoke volumes about his kindness and helpfulness and shows that even in brief moments, he made a lasting impression. May you all find comfort in the memories you shared.
Joel Johnston says
September 17, 2025 at 2:24 pm

Hey Michael
The part for your tractor came in

Your mechanic on call, Joel
Bill Walker says
September 17, 2025 at 3:39 pm

Dear Shine & Kevin and family,
May fond memories provide you comfort, and hoping it helps to know that friends have you in their thoughts.
With Condolence,
Bill & Michaela Walker
Nancy Pedoniquotte says
September 17, 2025 at 4:24 pm

Sending our condolences, love and respect to all the family! Hoping he’s playing his guitar (maybe the fiddle) on the grand stage!!
Barry Diamond and Nancy Pedoniquotte
Stan Hoath says
September 17, 2025 at 7:32 pm

We Were Really Saddened To Hear Of Mikes Sudden Passing. We Really Enjoyed Our Chats And Visits Wherever We ran Into Each Other .At Bingo, Grocery Store ETC. Sincere Sympathy To Nadine ,Daughters And Grand Children As Mike Sure Thought The World Of You People Always Remarking About All Their Sporting Activities. A Super Fellow .And A Good Friend.. Cherish All The Memories. The Family Really Picked A Nice Picture Of Mike For His Obituary. Stan and Ruth Hoath.
Emma Costantini says
September 17, 2025 at 11:00 pm

Nadine and family ,
I am so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing, he was a true gentleman and loved his girls immensely. He made my parents and I always feel welcomed when we came to visit especially when sharing a glass of dad’s home made wine . May he rest in peace .
Miriam Johnston says
September 18, 2025 at 1:40 pm

Nadine and family: my sincere condolences for your loss. Mike was a kind man and was always kind to me and my family . I will keep Mike and his family in my prayers. Miriam
Cindy says
September 18, 2025 at 6:48 pm

My deepest condolences to the family. I remember Mike at bingo and we would call each other “lucky” as we walked by. smiling
Keith Gilbert says
September 18, 2025 at 9:36 pm

Heartfelt condolences to all of Mike’s family and friends. He was a very good friend to me when he boarded at our place for school. There are so many good memories, him playing the guitar for Sammy, sniping from the upstairs window, teasing my mom……… RIP Mike.
Randy and Sharon Vanwyck says
September 19, 2025 at 7:38 am

Shine, Kevin and family: Sending you condolences and keeping you in our thoughts through these very sad and difficult days.
Colleen Madill says
September 19, 2025 at 9:23 am

Shine, Kevin, and family. Our thoughts are with you, so so sorry for your loss.
Dan and Colleen Madill
SJ Holtam says
September 20, 2025 at 1:56 am

Was so sad to hear this terrible news. I have fond memories of my time visiting Neyaashiinigmiing and particularly camp week at the property. Mike always made me feel so welcome as did the rest of the family and extended family. I know this will be such a big loss for the whole family. Sending lots of love from the UK, I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts through this difficult time.
Jason says
September 20, 2025 at 6:24 pm

We had to privilege to know Mike for many years. His quiet humour and energy will be remembered for years to come. His contributions to our community will never be forgotten! Love Jason and Salsa.
Greg & Tawnia Courage says
September 21, 2025 at 11:22 am

Nadine and family, we are sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. Remember having some good laughs with him at our place in Lion’s Head for staff socials. May all your fond memories help you through this very difficult time.

Mike Desjardine September 13, 2025

Date of Funeral

Condolences(23)

Terry King says

Julie Damm says

Frances Petonoquot (Lavalley). says

Donna ward says

Janna & family says

Penny Leishman says

Ron Pyette Sr says

Glenda Jamieson says

Tibby Johnston says

David Johnston-Weiser says

Joel Johnston says

Bill Walker says

Nancy Pedoniquotte says

Stan Hoath says

Emma Costantini says

Miriam Johnston says

Cindy says

Keith Gilbert says

Randy and Sharon Vanwyck says

Colleen Madill says

SJ Holtam says

Jason says

Greg & Tawnia Courage says

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